Healthcare and Health Insurance in UK

Summary: The quality of medical care in the UK is generally considered to be of a high standard, with the NHS providing free healthcare to all citizens. In comparison to the US, the UK has a higher life expectancy and lower infant mortality rate. Emergency services in the UK are well-equipped and highly trained, with ambulance services responding quickly to calls. To call for an ambulance in the UK, you can dial 999 or 112 from any phone.

How are healthcare services England?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in England, they replied:

"Healthcare in England is provided by the National Health Service, or NHS. The NHS is a public healthcare system which provides free healthcare to all permanent residents, including citizens and those living in England with a valid visa. Amongst its services are general practitioners (GPs), dentists, opticians, pharmacists, hospitals, and more. The quality of public healthcare in England is generally high, as the NHS strives to provide the best care possible to its citizens and residents. Foreign residents also benefit from access to the NHS, with the exception of certain services such as some prescription costs which are reserved to citizens only. For expats in England, the public healthcare system provides free healthcare for all medical treatments, surgeries, and hospital visits. However, it is important to note that an upfront fee may be required at the time of treatment, though it can be reimburseable once the patient has applied to the healthcare system," said an expat in UK.

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What are medical services in England like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in England, they replied:

"Medical services in England are both comprehensive and accessible, with the National Health Service (NHS) providing high quality healthcare to everyone in the country, regardless of income or social class. The NHS operates a network of general and specialist hospitals, as well as a wide range of community health services and mental health services. Primary care services are provided by general practitioners (GPs) who act as gatekeepers to the NHS, as well as community pharmacies and opticians. The UK also has a number of world-renowned specialist hospitals and research institutions, and is a major hub for medical innovation and research," said an expat in UK.

"NHS is okay for minor healthcare - check ups, vaccines, etc. that said, the women's check up (PAP smea) is archaic! Facilities don't have the proper examination table-stirrups to do a thorough screen," commented one expat living in London, UK.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in England?

"Healthcare in England is considered fairly expensive, especially compared to other countries in Europe. The National Health Service (NHS) provides free healthcare to everyone, however there are some additional costs associated with it, such as prescription fees and hospital car parking. Private health insurance can also be expensive, however with it you are often able to access faster and more advanced treatments. Those with a higher disposable income are more likely to opt for private health insurance," wrote an expat living in UK.

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What are emergency services like in England?

When we asked about emergency services, members in England wrote:

"Emergency services in England, including the ambulance service, are generally fast and efficient. To call for an ambulance, phone 999, which is the national emergency services number in the United Kingdom. This call is free and should be used any time life is at risk or immediate medical attention is needed. The operator will ask questions to determine details about the emergency and will give immediate advice about how to help," said one expat living in UK.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"England is home to many top tier medical facilities. In particular, cities such as London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds are known for their outstanding selection of medical specialists. Within these cities, there are a range of specialty clinics and hospitals that can provide the highest levels of care and expertise. Additionally, certain universities and research centers such as those based in Oxford, Cambridge, Newcastle and Bristol are associated with renowned specialist teams who focus on specific areas in medicine," commented one expat living in UK.

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Are common prescription medications available in England?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in England. Most medicines prescribed by English doctors are made available through the country’s advanced pharmaceutical local supply chain. This supply chain includes a large network of wholesalers, retail pharmacies, and manufacturers who have been approved and monitored by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Patients can also purchase prescription drugs from privately-run online pharmacies, but these have to be properly licensed in order to guarantee the safety and quality of the products," wrote an expat living in UK.

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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in England?

"Medical facilities and medical care in England are of a high standard. The National Health Service (NHS) provides free healthcare to all residents thanks to its highly trained physicians and state-of-the-art equipment. The NHS also works to ensure access to quality care regardless of background or financial situation. The country also provides access to a broad range of specialists and the latest treatments, including experimental treatments. Patients from all over the world have been drawn to England due to the quality of care provided. All in all, medical facilities and medical care in England are of a very high quality," commented one expat living in UK.

"Healthcare in Sheffield is top notch and government hospitals, clinics and doctor's surgeries are in close proximity, regardless of where you are. It's important to register with a doctor when you move to England," wrote one expat.

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As a foreigner living in England, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in England you will have access to public healthcare. Generally, the public healthcare system in England is of a high standard; the services provided are comprehensive, with treatments for many illnesses and conditions available for free on the NHS. Furthermore, you can receive the same quality of care regardless of whether or not you can afford to pay for private healthcare. It is important to note that, if you are not eligible for free treatment, you may be charged for certain services, so it is best to check with your local surgery to find out what is available and whether any charges apply," said one expat living in UK.

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What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in England if they have access to public healthcare in England. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"My experience with the local health care system during the pandemic in England has been quite positive. I was able to access regular appointments with my GP by telephone and was given support and advice when needed. I was also very pleased with the quick and efficient responses and advice I received when I needed to access more urgent help and support. Overall, I found the health care system in England to be highly organised and professional," wrote one expat.

"I will be getting my first vaccine tomorrow at the age of 59. The UK has done an excellent job with the vaccine," commented one expat who moved to London.

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What advice do you have for expats having a baby in England?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in England about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"Go with the flow and relax. Communicate and discuss.
So many people will look after you with that one midwife you don't get on with should not colour your vision of the whole team and experience or country.
I am gutted our next child will not be born there," said one expat in London.

Are healthcare services good in England?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in England. They wrote:

"The National Health Service (NHS) in England provides excellent healthcare to its citizens, with an emphasis on preventative care. Health services are delivered by a wide range of stakeholders, including general practitioners (GPs), mental health professionals, community health professionals, and hospitals, who provide consultations, diagnosis, treatments, and aftercare. Citizens of England can also access help from pharmacists and dentists as needed. Patients will be assigned a surgeon and a general practitioner who are responsible for coordinating their care. The NHS also provides a range of additional services, such as specialist services for rare conditions and surgeries, as well as hospitals for more serious conditions and treatments. Furthermore, a number of private healthcare providers operate in England, allowing people to receive additional treatments that are not available through the NHS," said one expat in UK.

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in England

How are healthcare services England?

What are medical services in England like?

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in England?

What are emergency services like in England?

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

Are common prescription medications available in England?

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in England?

As a foreigner living in England, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in England?

Are healthcare services good in England?

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